Veronica Clifford

Veronica H. (Orlando) Clifford, of Bethlehem, passed away October 8, 2017. She was the loving wife of the late Joseph Clifford. Born in Bethlehem, she was the daughter of Angelo and Marie (Donnelly) Orlando. Her whole life she spent dancing and dreaming of being a "Ballerina." She grew up dancing for her family and friends, attending musicals and practicing whenever she could. She eventually enrolled in the dance studio in the O'Reilly building on 3rd and New Sts where she danced and eventually took over the School. She worked very hard, even making some of the costumes by hand, but truly loved her job. She then gave birth to her wonderful son- Thomas. She continued to teach and studied with many teachers locally and in NY. Veronica then opened her studio up at 540 N. New St. Bethlehem, Ronnie Clifford School of Dance. She taught over 2,000 children in her over 50 years of teaching. After moving to Lutheran Manor she lived a very active life, being involved with scheduling entertainment and giving line dance lessons. She then moved on to share her life with those at Manor Care 2021 where many old students and friends got together to help celebrate her last big birthday in April. Veronica was a wonderful teacher but her son and family were deeply important to her. She will be sadly missed by many. Survivors: Son- Thomas Clifford, 5 Grandchildren, 5 Great Grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brother- Joseph Orlando and sister-Gladys Heimpel. Services: A viewing will be held Friday 10-11AM with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11AM all in Saints Simon and Jude Catholic Church 730 W. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018. Burial to follow in Holy Saviour Cemetery. Arrangements care of Downing Funeral Home, Inc.